Astronaut Discloses Emotional Distress Following Deluge of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her background – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She concluded that amid the criticism, important benefits had resulted from the experience, including increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The diverse crew also comprised experts in multiple disciplines.

The company behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.